Driveway & Paving Specialist
A driveway and paving specialist designs and installs driveways, paths, and hard-standing areas using materials including block paving, tarmac, gravel, resin-bound, and natural stone. They combine structural groundwork with an eye for design.
What does a driveway specialist do?
Driveway and paving specialists handle all aspects of hard landscaping, including:
- Block paving driveways and patios
- Tarmac and asphalt driveway installation
- Resin-bound and resin-bonded surface installation
- Natural stone paving (Indian sandstone, granite setts, limestone)
- Gravel and decorative aggregate driveways
- Porcelain patio installation
- Drainage and soakaway design for SuDS compliance
- Driveway edging and kerbing
Are driveway installations regulated?
Partially. Since 2008, if you are paving more than 5 square metres of front garden with an impermeable surface, you need planning permission unless the water drains onto a permeable area within your property. This regulation exists to reduce surface water flooding.
Permeable paving systems (permeable block paving, gravel, resin-bound) allow you to pave your front garden without planning permission. A good driveway specialist will advise on SuDS-compliant options.
Building Regulations may apply if you are creating a vehicle crossover (dropped kerb) from the highway, which requires council approval.
What to look for when hiring a driveway specialist
When choosing a driveway specialist, consider:
- Drainage planning — SuDS compliance is important. The specialist should address surface water management in their proposal.
- Sub-base preparation — Driveway longevity depends on proper sub-base depth and compaction. Ask about their method and sub-base depth.
- Material advice — A good specialist will recommend materials based on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and practical needs (e.g., oil staining resistance).
- Portfolio — Driveways are highly visible. View completed projects to assess quality and design.
- Guarantee — Block paving should be guaranteed against sinking and spreading for at least 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new driveway cost?
Gravel driveways cost £1,500–£3,500. Tarmac costs £2,500–£5,000. Block paving costs £3,000–£7,000. Resin-bound costs £3,500–£7,000. Natural stone costs £5,000–£12,000. All prices are for a typical single-car driveway (30–50m²). Costs vary significantly with size, access, and sub-base requirements.
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?
If you are paving over 5 square metres of front garden with impermeable materials, you need planning permission. Using permeable paving (porous block paving, gravel, resin-bound) avoids this requirement. You will also need council approval for a dropped kerb if you do not already have one. Rear garden paving does not have the same restrictions.